Ronald Hansen

Ronald Ralph Hansen, age 86, passed away March 26, 2021, following a short hospital stay. Ron was born in Grand Forks on January 8, 1935, the son of Hans and Zelma (Rice).  He was the youngest of seven children and was raised in Grand Forks and graduated from Central High School.  He enlisted and served in the United States Navy from 1953 to 1957.  During his military leave, he met his wife of 64 years, Marian (Hartford).  Ron and Marian were married at United Lutheran Church in Grand Forks on May 28, 1956.  Following Ron’s honorable discharge from the Navy, he and Marian lived in a few other locations but settled in Grand Forks where they raised six children. 

Ron spent much of his working career in the optical industry, but his favorite job was after retirement where he spent 15 years working at 4000 Valley Square until age 80. 

Ron’s true passion in life was his family.  No gathering was too big or small, he cherished the opportunity to spend time with his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who meant everything to him. Time spent at Walters Cabins for the annual family gathering was priceless. Ron’s other interests included nurturing his plants and flowers, following Fighting Sioux Hockey, his time spent at United Lutheran Church and volunteering and supporting his favorite projects and initiatives.  In his earlier years, Ron’s favorites were playing and coaching hockey, trapshooting, hunting and fishing, and he passed on all these passions to his sons.

Ron is survived by his wife, his children: Curt (Janelle), Fargo, ND; Joni Williams, East Grand Forks, MN; Dave (Lynette), Watford City, ND; Greg (Elizabeth), Lakeville, MN; Suzanne (Mike) Lien, Grand Forks, ND; Terri, La Crosse, WI, his sister Beverly Christen and lifetime friends Lyle and Dolly Smith.  Ron was a loving and supportive grandpa to Derek, Adam, Mathew, Jon, Josh, Ryan, Kayla, Alex, Julia, Matt, Caroline, Michael and Breanna and his eight great-grandchildren. He is also survived by their family pet "Andy".

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Gordon, Dwight and Gerald, his sisters June Johnson, Joyce Hadland and grandson Jon.

Ron will be dearly missed by his family and friends.  

Memorial service: 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 30, 2021, at United Lutheran Church with visitation one hour prior to the service.  The service will be available via livestream on the United Lutheran Church Facebook Page.